The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is leveraging nostalgia for East Germany and divisive identity messaging to bolster its support in upcoming state elections. Specifically targeting eastern German states, the AfD aims to capitalize on sentiments linked to the former DDR. Polls currently indicate the party is poised to gain significant ground, potentially even leading in several regions. This strategy involves appeals to a specific vision of “authentic Germans,” raising concerns about exclusionary rhetoric. The party’s tactics are directly provoking reactions from the Scholz-led government. This focus on the past and identity is a core component of AfD’s campaign to increase its political power. The government is closely monitoring the situation, anticipating potential challenges to national unity.